Complex Networks moving to larger space

Millennial- and Gen Z–focused media brand Complex Networks is moving to an office space controlled by one of its parent companies.

The website, which recently partnered with cable channel Fuse, has subleased roughly 80,000 square feet at 229 W. 43rd St. from Yahoo. The company plans to move into the space next week, leaving the roughly 64,000-square-foot office it has occupied for several years, at 1271 Sixth Ave.

Complex CEO Rich Antoniello said the new office will give the growing media company room to expand its footprint and also comes outfitted with modern video-production facilities previously installed by Yahoo. Complex has focused on video content, building its roster of daily and weekly programming to 33 shows, including hits such as Hot Ones, Sneaker Shopping and Everyday Struggle.

"In the new space, we're going to have four professional production studios," Antoniello said. "It's a big upgrade from our current space at a moment when we're expanding and improving our video platform."

Antoniello has previously stated that he hopes to expand the company's slate of web series to as many as 40 shows. While the company has focused on talk-show and reality formats, Antoniello said, Complex will also produce scripted programs.

"We think there's a huge opportunity there," Antoniello said. "With the success we've had in the unscripted space, we believe scripted is a natural extension for us."

Antoniello said scripted programs would not be filmed in the new studio but that the facility could be used for postproduction work related to that content.

The office expansion was spurred by growth in other areas of the business as well. Complex has sought out partnerships with more traditional media channels, such as Fuse. It just wrapped the second annual ComplexCon, a large multiday convention in Long Beach, Calif., where it hosted celebrity appearances and panels on topics including music, fashion and culture.

"We had 55,000 people attend this year, compared to 38,000 last year," Antoniello said. "We're growing it in every possible way."

Antoniello did not disclose the details of the sublease deal, but because of the company's relationship with Yahoo, it is likely to be favorable to Complex. Yahoo was acquired over the summer by Verizon, the same parent that co-owns Complex in a partnership with Hearst.

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